36 pages • 1 hour read
H. P. LovecraftThe Dunwich Horror
Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1929A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In "The Dunwich Horror" by H. P. Lovecraft, the Whateley family in a small Massachusetts village attempts to summon the Old Ones using dark magic, resulting in ominous events and a monstrous being that terrorizes the community. Ultimately, scholars from Miskatonic University intervene to stop the chaos. The text contains outdated and insensitive language regarding people with disabilities and people of diverse backgrounds.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
H. P. Lovecraft's The Dunwich Horror is lauded for its haunting atmosphere and mastery of cosmic horror, effectively instilling a sense of dread. Critics praise its imaginative world-building and rich descriptions but note that the narrative's pace can be slow. Negative assessments often cite the story's convoluted plot and limited character development. Overall, it's a compelling read for genre enthusiasts.
Who Should Read The Dunwich Horror?
Readers who enjoy The Dunwich Horror by H. P. Lovecraft typically appreciate cosmic horror, gothic settings, and eldritch mysteries. Comparable to fans of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Bram Stoker's Dracula, they relish in tales of ancient evils, mysterious rituals, and the fragility of human sanity.